What You Need to Know When Choosing an Outdoor Chaise Lounge

Whether you're soaking up some rays, or catching a nap after your morning swim, an outdoor chaise lounge is a good way to maximize every moment of your rest and relaxation. If the wide selection of styles and materials has your head spinning, consider the following questions to help you make the best purchasing decision.

What is a chaise lounge?

A chaise lounge is a long, low patio chair with an angled back on one end. It provides complete body support, making it a good choice for relaxing and lounging poolside. If you're planning on entertaining guests, armchairs or a patio dining set can be a better option that's more conducive to conversation.

Are chaise lounges comfortable?

Chaise lounges are designed for comfort; however, they're low to the ground, so it helps to keep their heights in mind if you have any mobility limitations. To improve comfort, consider these features:

Adjustable back: An adjustable multi-position back gives you complete control over your sitting position.

Cushions: If you opt for a traditional wooden or plastic steamer chair, acquire some removable cushions for added comfort. Alternatively, you can pick a sling chair comprising comfortable fabric on a sturdy frame. You can add cushions to sling chairs, but their suspended fabric seats are quite comfortable on their own, too.

Armrests: Some chaise lounges have armrests. These make it easier to get in and out of the chair, and provide additional support when reading poolside. If you find armrests restrictive, look for rests that fold away.

What material is best for a pool lounge chairs?

Resin Wicker: This material is lightweight and has an attractive coastal or country style. Because it's a synthetic material it takes minimal maintenance on your end and withstand many different climates.

Wood: There are two types of wood to consider. Soft woods aren't as dense, and hard woods are sturdier. Soft woods benefit from regular painting or varnishing to keep them protected and extend their usable lives. Hard woods are more expensive but usually heavier and more durable. Choose softer woods like pine or cedar if you want a lounge that's easier to move around. Harder woods like teak are best if you plan to leave the lounge in one place.

Aluminum: This metal is often used for the frames on sling chairs or vinyl strap chairs. It's durable, resistant to rust, and very lightweight for easy storage or relocation. Because they're so light, remember to bring them indoors during high winds.

Wrought iron: Heavy and durable, wrought iron doesn't require much maintenance. It's not as easy to move as other options due to the weight, but this can be ideal if you're concerned about your outdoor chaise lounge blowing around.

Plastic: This material is lightweight and has virtually no maintenance besides regular cleaning. You can easily wipe it down with warm, soapy water. This is the best choice if you plan to move your chaise around often.

Fabric: Outdoor furniture, especially when located near a pool, is likely to get damp, so fabrics should be resistant to mold and mildew. Sunbrella fabrics are a good choice, as they are also strong and less likely to tear.

What size chaise lounge should I buy?

Chaise lounges support the full body length, so they're quite large, especially if you opt for double models designed for two people. This means they're most suitable for large patio and pool deck areas. Before making a purchase, measure your available space, and remember to consider the additional space necessary for getting on and off the furniture, or opening nearby doors.

Another important consideration relating to size is storage. To avoid leaving furniture exposed to the elements through the winter, you need a suitable place to keep it covered. If you're storing furniture in an storage shed, consider stackable or folding designs to minimize space requirements, and make relocation easier with wheels attached.

By making wise purchasing choices it's possible to keep your outdoor chaise lounges looking good, and enjoy them for years to come. Use these helpful tips to choose the chaise that's just right for your needs.